Airbus's new A320neo (new engine option) jetliner is scheduled to fly for the first time on 25 September.
The first A320neo aircraft to fly, designated MSN6101is scheduled to takeoff at approximately 10:30 a.m. local time from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, France, for a two hours flight test.
The upgraded A320NEO will replace the current A320 aircraft, major difference being the two new engine choices- the Pratt & Whitney’s PW1100G-JM Geared Turbofan and the CFM International LEAP-1A engines.
The new engine choice coupled with aerodynamic improvements like sharklets or winglets, is expected to deliver a 15 percent fuel savings, reduction of 3,600 tonnes of C02 per aircraft per year, 8% lower operating costs, as well as an increase in range of approximately 500 nautical miles.
The NEO flight test fleet will eventually comprise eight aircraft including two A320neos, one A319neo and one A321neo for each of the new engine choices.
Airbus rolled out the first prototype in July.
The flight can be watched online at Airbus.com with the company’s live streaming video broadcast of the event.
A320neo completes maiden flight.
